Sunan marks seven decades with festive celebration

On August 13, 2024, at the Solanggesai Horse Racing Field in Sunan Yugur autonomous county, Zhangye, Gansu province, thousands of people dressed in festive attire gathered to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the county's founding.

Established in 1954, Sunan Yugur autonomous county holds the distinction of being China's sole autonomous county for the Yugur ethnic group. The county is home to a diverse population comprising 21 ethnic groups, including Yugur, Han, Tibetan, Mongolian, Hui, and Tu.

Over the past seven decades, the county has undergone a remarkable transformation. The urban and rural landscapes have been revolutionized, with nomadic herders transitioning from tent dwellings to modern apartments, and from a nomadic lifestyle to settled communities.

Today, the pastoral regions exude an air of contemporary civilization, signifying a new era for both the agricultural and pastoral populations.

People from various ethnic groups sing and dance to celebrate their prosperous life in Sunan Yugur autonomous county of Zhangye, Gansu province, on August 13, 2024. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

People from various ethnic groups sing and dance to celebrate their prosperous life in Sunan Yugur autonomous county of Zhangye, Gansu province, on August 13, 2024. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

People from various ethnic groups sing and dance to celebrate their prosperous life in Sunan Yugur autonomous county of Zhangye, Gansu province, on August 13, 2024. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

People from various ethnic groups sing and dance to celebrate their prosperous life in Sunan Yugur autonomous county of Zhangye, Gansu province, on August 13, 2024. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

People from various ethnic groups sing and dance to celebrate their prosperous life in Sunan Yugur autonomous county of Zhangye, Gansu province, on August 13, 2024. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]